My stunning moon gazed down from high in my dark night sky, the most brilliant sphere of elegance and grace to ever have existed. If I had more time, I would have painted a beautiful portrait with the stars, something to inspire any who would look to my art for guidance. Alas, there was none. Too many issues pressed upon us from all directions, as if we were caught in a room in a long lost ancient tomb that was filled with traps itching to end our lives.
I left the balcony from which I had lowered my sister's sun and
had brought about my evening. The guest room I had been provided with was... sufficient, if a tad sparse. A well-kept bed, a simple work desk, and a wooden chair were all notables.
Such meager accommodations would not typically be acceptable for a retired princess, but during such a hectic time I would not bear a grudge over such trivialities. Nevertheless, a bed was all I really desired and even then it was not a requirement.
I had slept my sister's day away after Cadance and I had managed to calm Celestia down and get her comfortable enough to fall asleep. I had somehow managed to stay awake for around five days straight, possibly a new personal record. My only thoughts over said days had been of aiding my sister in every way I could.
When Cadance finally ordered me to bed I was prepared for a confrontation, but the pleading look on her face, along with everything else she had done for us, was enough to convince me otherwise. Cadance was beside herself. Young Flurry had left in the morning without any warning. I would be just as distressed if my only daughter left the safety of her home in a time of uncertainty. Knowing Flurry, she went directly to Canterlot to confront her aunt, but it mattered little. I knew first hoof just how strong the young alicorn was.
Twilight Sparkle could not best her. There was even some doubt in me that I could overcome the "miracle" in a battle to the death. A combination of raw talent and relentless effort had produced a truly fearsome combatant. No, there was nothing to fear when it came to Flurry Heart's well-being. Although I still wished to speak with her, if only to gather intel on her aunt.
Princess Twilight Sparkle.
Her transgressions could not be overlooked. An attack on my sister was an attack on me, and though I was guilty of the same travesty, I had paid for my crimes. Countless scenarios of what could be done to the arrogant mare played in my mind, none ending well for the ruler of Equestria. Not wanting to dwell on such... unsavory thoughts, I left the guest room, my stomach rumbling with hunger. My intention was to get to the dining hall for a fresh meal as soon as possible. It was around dinner time and I hoped Flurry or Cadance would be there as well. With some measure of fortune, Celestia would be awake and awaiting my arrival as well.
"Tia..." I whispered to myself as I trotted down the hall in a world of my own. We would have to make a move sooner rather than later. Whatever Twilight's schemes were, we could not remain inactive for much longer. There was nopony else to rely on and sister's current status was problematic to say the least.
Cadance had chalked her outburst up to a mental irregularity. Whatever I had walked in on between her and Twilight had left a lasting impression on my sibling. Cadance said it would be up to Celestia to fight the demons that had taken up residence in her psyche. I would be there for her if I could be of any use, and even if I could not.
I trotted with my head held high, but deep in contemplation. The ponies of the Crystal Empire that walked past offered "forgive me"s and "excuse me"s as they cleared the way. I replied cordially to each salutation without a thought. "It is no problem. Think nothing of it. Tis fine." Et-cetera.
Must maintain appearances. Never show weakness or frailty to anypony. Such rotten fruit are what brought about the Nightmare. I would not fall again. I could not.
An ocean blue unicorn clad horn to hoof in opulent silver armor stood in my way. He was built like a boulder, with an even larger frame than I. From within his helmet spilled a long black mane. At one point in history the Crystal Empire had been inhabited by earth ponies alone. The passage of time had put a swift end to that.
Over decades, word spread of the thriving empire. Many who heard the news were quick to relocate to the bountiful land. As such, unicorns and pegasi were now commonplace in my niece's land. A member of Cadance's elite "Rainbow Guard", it was easy to identify the expertise of the soldier that waited before me.
Sapphire gems were molded into different parts of his armor, around his horn, on the chestplate, and near his hooves, as well as less visible areas. Crystals had been used liberally by mages for ages, their main purpose typically spell amplification, but they also had other uses as well.
Sapphire in particular, was spectacular for increasing the potency of water based abilities. The other Rainbow Guard members utilized other stones. The most common being rubies for fire, emeralds for earth, and topaz for air. Some rarely used gems were pearls for healing spells and obsidian for magic that could alter the fabric of reality itself.
The most adept guards employed multiple different jewels, becoming storms of magical prowess on the battlefield. The Rainbow Guard however, relied on one another moreso than their own capabilities. They were the very definition of teamwork, in many ways making all other squads look inferior in comparison.
Even my own Lunar Guard at the peak of their strength could not rival their tenacity. As one, they were a force to be reckoned with. Flurry had done an outstanding job since her father's untimely demise. Provided with the proper resources, the Crystal Empire had become practically impregnable in the capable hooves of the young Captain of the Guard.
"Your Highness, I bear a message from my lady, Princess Cadance," he said after executing a perfect bow. It was apparent their manners were impeccable as well.
"Speak young one, I will hear the message."
"The princess has had a meal prepared and is currently awaiting your presence in the dining hall." His etiquette and enunciation were spot on.
"Thank you, I shall make haste at once," I bobbed my head in understanding. The guard didn't move a muscle, instead looking left and right nervously. "Is there something amiss?" I raised a brow.
"If it's alright with you, Your Highness, I'd like to escort you to the dining hall," he looked toward me, but not into my eyes, as he began to fidget in his armor.
What a peculiar request...
"I would have your name, warrior." To refer to him as a simple guard felt like it may be a bit disrespectful.
"Tidal Force, Your Highness. Tye for times sake," he bowed his head humbly.
"Very well, Tye. You have my permission to lead the way." I saw no harm in acquiescing to his request. If anything it might raise the morale of at least one of Cadance's soldiers.
"Right away, Your Highness!" he hopped into a steady trot next to me.
"What are your intentions behind this kindness, Tye? I am in no need of an escort, yet you appear to desire something of me," I kept my head forward. The unicorn had already shown some discomfort and I did not want to exacerbate that if I could avoid doing so.
"Is it that obvious? Forgive me, Your Highness, but-"
"That baffles the mind as well," I stopped and turned to him, trying to resist the urge to become aggressive. "Why do you refer to me as 'Your Highness'? Quite clearly I have relinquished my position. Not only that, but I would not be the princess of your empire regardless, so what drives you to such lengths?" Apparently Canterlot guards were not the only ones that could not view my sister or I in a less reverential light.
"My apologies, Your Hi- Prin- uhh Luna?" he went pale at his own lack of finesse. I stifled a giggle with my hoof, his adorable anxiety brightening my mood several notches.
"Tis of no consequence. Feel free to address me as you see fit," I placed my hoof on his shoulder plate. "T'was merely an inquiry, nothing more." My gesture drew wide eyes and a hanging jaw, as if my touch itself was a priceless gift. I started towards the dining hall, a bit slower to allow him to keep pace with me. He trotted to my side quickly before clearing his throat.
"It's mostly due to my parents. I think even you'd be surprised at how you and your sister are viewed by your sub- uh, by the citizens of Equestria," he frowned at his own flub. I had no problem letting it slide. "Traditions and reverence passed down for generations... to leave behind thousands of years of rule, to move beyond them so easily, is a lot to ask of anypony." We turned a corner, the dining hall still a ways to go. "You and Princess Celestia are Equestria's..." he searched for the right term. "Heart." It was always a relief to dodge the label of deity. Sister and I were most certainly not normal ponies.
What has it been? Four, five thousand years now?
I had lost count centuries ago. There was probably some official documentation somewhere in Equestria, but the future mattered more to me than the past. Still, whenever we were referred to as goddesses a tremor of discomfort would shoot through me, especially when I was the target of such adulation. Too many shortcomings and failures filled my ledger for me to be in the same discussion as the title goddess.
"That is a... unique description," I said as I smiled at another guard we passed by. He would not reciprocate-- they were trained not to--but I liked to imagine my actions pleased some of them.
"It's the best I could come up with without saying you're our goddesses. That would be pretty silly," he chuckled. There it was, but he purposely chose to steer clear of saying it...
Interesting.
"And why, pray tell, do you think that? We have been ascribed that designation countless times in the past." I flared my wings out, projecting an air of annoyed authority. This time it was his turn to slam on the brakes.
"Oh ponyfeathers, I didn't just insult a goddess, did I?" he fell to his haunches as his ears pressed down against his helmet. The terror that overtook him was too much for me. I let out a hearty laugh, light tears coming to the corners of my eyes.
"Nay, nay, of course not," I managed to get out between receding laughter. "I am no goddess. Once again you have piqued my curiosity, Tye," I folded my wings back into place. "Traditionally, ponies have no reservations throwing the term 'goddess' around my sister and I. What stayed your tongue?" The clarity of my words appeared to calm him, drawing a relieved sigh.
"Oh thank Celes-" his panicked eyes darted to mine. I exploded in a fit of laughter, unable to contain it. "It's just an expression!" He waved his hooves in protest, trying to make me understand through pantomime. I laughed even harder. It was unbecoming of a former princess, but it felt good, after everything that had happened over the past few days, did it feel good.
"I am well aware," I wiped the tears from the corners of my eyes. "Pay me no heed." We started moving again, cantering toward the dining hall, our repeated stops were making me later than I would have preferred.
"Well, I've done a lot of research on the past."
"Ah, a bookworm?" I asked.
"Captain Heart says a strong mind is every bit as important as a strong body." A vigor came to him at the mention of his leader.
"The Captain is wise beyond her years."
"She's an inspiration to the guard and to all the empire." The pride in his eyes was uplifting, similar to the feelings Celestia stirred in her faithful. After some quiet travel, I broke the silence that had fallen over the two of us.
"You were speaking of researching history?"
"Right! Forgive me, I was... distracted," his face was suddenly a bright shade of red.
It appears as if pride is not the only feeling Flurry inspires within her troops.
"Well, I stumbled on stories of some incredibly powerful beings. The centaur, Tirek. Chrysalis, queen of the changelings. The dark unicorn, Sombra. The manifestation of chaos itself, Discord." It was as if he was listing off our many failures as rulers. For me, that ugly period of defeat was only eclipsed by the thousand years I had spent within my moon. To this day I could not comprehend the logic that had compelled Celestia to act as she had, though I had been in no position to contradict her. It happened immediately after my return, right after I was purified and forgiven. Sister opted to take an... alternative approach to leading the nation. A more peaceful one. In doing so, we were forced to portray ourselves as extremely weak. Our first defeat came at the hooves of that filthy insect Chrysalis.
It happened at Cadance's wedding to Twilight Sparkle's elder brother, Shining Armor. An event that was cause for celebration swiftly turned into a disaster. It was not often that an alicorn married... if ever now that I thought about it. Chrysalis had infiltrated Canterlot, posing as our niece and hypnotized the groom. The two of us were well aware of her plot. Both Celestia and I had seen through the deception of the meager creature with ease, however sister chose to take no action. She even had the gall to bar me from attending the ceremony, knowing very well I would have crushed the bug beneath my hoof.
Ever since Twilight's success with the Nightmare and Discord, Celestia put all her faith into the young unicorn and her friends. The strategy was to allow them to handle all tribulations that faced our land, possibly in an attempt to bolster their confidence, as far as I could tell. I was adamantly against such foolishness, but felt I would be overstepping my bounds if I objected. Sister was all in, going so far as to feign her own defeat by that deplorable leech. It was absolutely infuriating.
To this day it still is. Had she no pride?
I could have squashed that insect with no effort whatsoever.
And worse than that? Twilight and her friends were captured, leaving the rescue of the kingdom to our niece and Shining Armor. Still, Celestia would not relent and continued with her new policy.
Tirek was next to invade our lands. This time he was somehow capable of "absorbing" alicorn magic, as if such a silly thing were possible. To take the power of her sun or my moon and use as one sees fit?
Laughable.
Still we played along, passing our power to Celestia's chosen one. Of course to truly do so was an impossibility and thus made no sense whatsoever. A mare in her early twenties could never hope to contain the power of myself, my sister, and our niece, all while still maintaining her own mana. All the power of two millennia old cosmos manipulators AND the Princess of Love, in one newly created alicorn?
Ridiculous.
We gave an ounce of ourselves and muted the rest of our energy.
Ironically, the power we gave Twilight to keep away from Tirek was traded to him for the release of her friends.
Excellent job, Princess of Friendship.
Ultimately, none of our performance theater even mattered in aiding with Tirek's defeat. Twilight Sparkle and the others soundly trounced the centaur without our "power". They were reliable, yes, but I could not understand why Celestia and I had to be so undeniably helpless.
The final threat was Sombra. To this day I am still bewildered as to the events that had unfolded during his invasion. Sister and I assisted a recently brought back from the void Starswirl the Bearded in fighting back the living Everfree forest. Even now, using all the wisdom and knowledge I have managed to accrue over my years, I end up clutching my head in pain at the idiocy of it all. Surely one of the legendary Immortal Sisters or the most powerful unicorn to have ever live could overcome one sentient forest?
Apparently not.
Once again Twilight and her friends became the saviors of Equestria. Once again my sister and I looked like utter fools. And these were just some of the major failures that we were subjected to.
Chrysalis and her changelings somehow capturing my sister and I, not to mention Twilight and her friends, as well as Cadance and Shining Armor. Our power "stolen" multiple times. At one point, Tia had even convinced Discord to go along with her foolishness. He
had feigned defeat at the hooves of Sombra, though his deception was swiftly brought to light when he refused to continue the ruse. The draconequus was smarter than I gave him credit for. It was all so exasperatingly stupid to have to perpetuate such madness.
"And what conclusion, might I ask, did researching those fiends lead you to?" I had to conceal my clenched teeth.
"At first, it made me doubt," his words came out more earnest than before. It was easy to see that was not something easily confessed.
"Doubt?"
"You, Princess Celestia... even my own lady," his head drooped. A guard doubting their own vows? It probably happened more often than one would think, but open admittance? That was a rare occurrence indeed. On the other hoof, doubt in Celestia and I was quite warranted. I had warned my sister over and over again, defeat can only occur so many times before even your staunchest defenders begin to question their own loyalty. I knew it would eventually come to this, but...
"At first?" Perhaps there was a light at the end of this bleak tunnel.
"It doesn't make sense, right?" he looked at me quizzically, as if I had the answer he was searching for. I, in fact, did.
It doesn't make a lick of sense. As I had heard Applejack say once before.
"How so?" I desired his conclusion, not to guide him to one, so I feigned ignorance.
"I mean, don't get me wrong, they sound strong... well, some of them do. Chrysalis was essentially an emotional bug," he chuckled.
"An apt description," I agreed with a giggle. Despite Twilight's accord with the insect, I wondered if she was still underground somewhere trying to grow her hive in the hopes that she might attempt to overthrow Equestria yet again. I welcomed the prospect. It sounded like an easy way for me to relieve some stress.
"They couldn't have accomplished the exploits written in the old texts. Luck out once? Okay, sure, the element of surprise can win you a battle that you shouldn't. Multiple times though? That kind of thing doesn't happen more than once. Any intelligent being learns from the mistakes of their past. Only a fool would repeat such folly, and I know you aren't fools."
"Well said," I nodded. He grew quiet, seemingly to gather his thoughts.
"Captain Flurry told us how unfair you and Princess Celestia are."
"Un... fair?" Why did that sound like a slight at our character?
"In the sense of how powerful you are," his eyes shined in admiration. I had to turn away to hide the blush that came to my cheeks. I was more than a little proud of my strength and praising it was the quickest way into my good graces. "Captain Heart said you were unstoppable. She said you're the only one she's ever faced that she's had to surrender to." That battle had been one for the ages. While it was merely an exhibition, our pride would not let either of us take it easy. If not for my endless reserves of magic, I may have been defeated, but in the end an exhausted Flurry Heart was unable to continue.
"My sister and I are strong." As we closed in on the doors to the dining hall, I came to a stop. "Be that as it may, it still does not explain why you have accompanied me."
"I have to ask," his eyes locked with mine.
"Ask?"
"There's something there, right? A variable or an angle I can't see?" He was right, of course, and I saw no fault in revealing the truth to him.
"You are correct, in none of those circumstances should we have been overwhelmed." I watched the shock from the revelation register in his brain.
"I knew it! I knew someone who beat Captain Flurry couldn't lose!" he almost leapt into the air.
"Peace, Tye," I smiled. I could lose. Tia could lose too. We had been defeated before. We were not invincible, far from it, but I did not want to rain on his parade. Taking his joy away so swiftly felt... inconsiderate.
"Forgive me, Your Highness," he still beamed even after settling down. "I've scoured the archives for answers and I've never had the chance to go to the ones in Canterlot. You and your sister are so hard to get an audience with, I'm so glad I finally got to talk with you."
"I am pleased we could converse as well, Tidal Force. Unfortunately, we have arrived at the dining hall," I tilted my head at the large doors.
"Of course!" he bowed low. "If we might speak again another time, it would truly be a blessing."
"I would like that," I agreed. As he stood up straight, a grateful smile opened his mouth.
"Thank you, my Princess of the Night," he trotted back the way we came.
"Flattery will get you nowhere," I called out to his retreating form, another blush coming to my cheeks.
"It isn't flattery if it's true, Your Highness! Besides, we'll always share a special bond." His reply drew a smile from me, but also curiosity.
"Oh?" I tilted my head. He turned to the side, pointing at his cutie mark. It was an ocean wave, my full moon hovering behind it.
"Since I was a colt, you'll always be my princess," he flashed a brilliant smile before continuing on his way.
Quite the charmer.
I stepped up to the doors of the dining hall, lifting a hoof to enter. Before I could touch them they burst open, covered in a magical field.
"-TIME YOU'LL ACTUALLY CONSIDER MY FEELINGS!" I had to take a step back so Cadance would not bump into me. Apparently, I had walked in on an argument. I stopped Cadance in her tracks with a flourish of my magic. She had not been watching where she was going, her eyes directed toward the dining hall. When she finally noticed her error, the frustration on her face highlighted by the drops of liquid under her eyes was overtaken by surprise. "Auntie?! I'm so sorry, I didn't-"
"It is quite alright, Cadance," I removed the magical hold I had on her. "Is there something I can assist you with?" Her face scrunched into a scowl at my inquiry.
"SOMEONE NEEDS ADVICE ON BEING AN OBEDIENT DAUGHTER!" she shouted, turning back towards the hall to project her voice in that direction more effectively.
"I ALREADY APOLOGIZED, MOM!" Flurry's voice echoed from within.
"I shall speak with her," I tried to sound as gentle as possible. Cadance turned to me with a half smile.
"Thank you, Auntie. Please, enjoy your food." As she trotted past, she jerked to a stop, seemingly remembering something important. "And please make sure you get some more sleep, you still look... really tired." Her soft expression was back, a welcome return.
"I promise." While I indeed was running on fumes, I thought I had been hiding that fact well. Apparently, I had done a poor job. I entered the dining hall, shutting the doors behind myself with some quick telekinesis. Flurry sat slumped, her head leaning on a hoof as she poked at her food with a magic held fork. On the table across from her was my meal. I trotted to my spot and took a seat.
"Good evening, Flurry," I said before surveying the spread. The rose petal salad caught my eye. It was made with a mixture of spinach leaves and iceberg lettuce, tossed with diced cherries and pecans. A light splash of maroon dressing decorated the sprinkling of rose petals. Next to the salad was a serving of wheat biscuits. A tall glass of amber liquid and ice cubes made up my beverage. Everything looked positively divine.
"Hey Granny." She didn't lift her head, instead poking a spinach leaf repeatedly with her fork. "How goes it?" her prodding continued.
"Well," I tasted the drink. Peach tea, very sweet, very good. "I spoke with a member of your Rainbow Guard."
"Oh, yeah?"
"Tidal Force." I nibbled the spinach leaf.
Delightful.
"Ty Dye's a good guard." She finally put the leaf that had suffered her wrath for so long into her mouth. "And an even better pony."
"It is quite evident. He carries himself with pride." I sampled the biscuit. Buoyant and full of flavor. "A good soldier is a sign of good leadership."
"Thanks, Granny." She had moved on to torturing a piece of lettuce.
"What happened, Flurry?" I moved on to the issue at hoof.
"Mom got scared," she sighed. It was easy to detect the sadness in the young alicorn. "We fought... cause I left."
"And you were aware she would react negatively?"
"Yeah... it was dumb." She lifted her glass to her muzzle, but did not drink. "I should really stop getting mad," she took a lazy sip.
"If only that were so easy." My past reared its ugly head as flashes of the pain I had inflicted on my sister ran through my mind. It felt an appropriate reference for the current conversation. "As I have told you countless times, uncontrolled anger is one of the things that lead me to become the Nightmare. Such an emotion is not to be trifled with, nor underestimated."
"I know, Granny." I had her total attention now. I did not bring up my travails often. Flurry was wise. She knew when to be attentive and when to be lackadaisical. "It's just... sometimes I can only focus on one thing ya know? When Granny Sola..." she closed her eyes. I waited until she was ready. "When she was hysterical, I... I just couldn't think of anything else. I had to do something." It was easy to see recalling the event was causing the anger to mount inside her even now. It was like looking into a mirror. Remembering my sister's distress was enough to fan the flames of my own rage. I had been just as affected as Flurry, but my priority at the time had been Tia. At the time, Twilight Sparkle could wait, but now? Now I was free to look at the bigger picture. I took a deep breath to release some of the pent up aggression.
"It is still an emotion I wrestle with even now. I felt the same as you seeing Tia suffer like that. Even now, I want nothing more than to..." I let the thought die. Flurry's gaze was unhappy and downcast, like she was a foal who had just been told she could not have dessert.
"What are you gonna do Granny... to Auntie Twi, I mean?" she refused to look at me. Fear was not the driving force behind her question, but something else.
"I do not know." I knew what I wanted to do to her, but not what I would do to her. Regardless, unity was essential for us in the empire, now more than ever. "I swear that I will combat the rage building inside of me. I shall do all I can to quash these feelings of hatred and anger." I swallowed some more salad. "If only I were more like Tia," I sighed. I had not meant to say that aloud.
"Granny Sola is unfair." This time I knew it was not meant as an insult. "I don't think I've ever seen her mad." It was a rarity to be sure, but it did happen. Usually, appropriately directed at me. "Even Mom gets mad, and she's the Princess of Love!" I decided to push the subject change, at least to show Flurry her error more clearly.
"Does she?" I swirled my tea around in its glass.
"Well, yeah," she was puzzled by my question. "You saw her just now. If that's not anger, I don't know what is."
"Is it?" I tilted my head quizzically. She looked as if I had just done something perplexing.
"Granny Moona-" Something clicked inside her, like flipping a light switch on in a dark room. "Am I... am I wrong?" she asked, though it was more introspective than directed my way.
"Your mother is not angry with you, Flurry. She is disappointed. Your thoughtless actions and complete lack of empathy have hurt her."
Flurry covered her face with her hooves, rubbing roughly.
"I know, I KNOW!" she let out a long groan.
"Even with a gift, one can misinterpret an emotion if not properly cautious. Despite what one may think, emotions are never easy." I polished off the last bits of my food before taking a long drag of tea.
"You're right, Granny," she gave me a thankful smile. "I gotta go make things right." I held up a hoof.
"If you might grant me a favor, before you go speak with your mother?"
"Sure, what do you need?" she leaned on her hooves, her forelegs on either side of her face.
"I would know what transpired between you and your aunt." She looked up, tapping her chin with a hoof.
"Not too much. We had some tea, we talked, she made me leave," she looked at me. "Did you wanna know anything specific?" I did not intend to make it personal.
I have to be rational.
"Why did she hurt my sister?" I was found wanting.
"She... she said it was a difference of opinions," Flurry rolled her eyes.
Ludicrous. Absolutely, positively, idiotic.
"She LIES," I hissed.
Be calm. Do not let anger cloud your judgment.
"It does seem ridiculous. To go that far over a disagreement?" she shook her head. "I don't buy it."
"And what of the barrier?" I had to change subjects or risk saying something I could not take back.
"Security, apparently. She said it's because of threats of invasion, but I think it’s cause she's scared of you and Granny Sola... well mostly just you," she finished the last of her drink.
"As she should be," I also finished my tea. That was it then. Her excuses were pathetic. The barrier clear evidence of her guilt. "Thank you, Flurry, I appreciate the information."
"One more thing, Granny," she moved to stand to her hooves.
"What is it?"
"I was inside Canterlot. She'd teleported me inside," she narrowed her eyes. A serious Flurry was one that needed to be heard. "Granny Moona, we were the only life in there."
"What... what do you mean?" I could not comprehend what she had intended. "You imply... evacuation of the city?"
"No," she shook her head, her curly mane bobbing back and forth. "There was nothing. No other ponies, no creatures, no birds, not even bugs. Just... nothing." The confession rocked her small frame. Detecting life was simple for those blessed with significant attachments to love. Most creatures were filled with the emotion. Love for others. Love for things. Love for places. Both Cadance and Flurry could feel, could sense that love. If Flurry had felt nothing in Canterlot then...
"I... see," I dropped back in my chair, suddenly feeling much heavier than normal.
What is the population of Canterlot? Hundreds of thousands? Millions?
It was another mystery that I had no time to dwell on. It was simply more blood on the hooves of Twilight Sparkle. The sound of the doors of the hall opening drew my attention.
"Granny Moona," Flurry stopped at the doors, refusing to face me. "Please don't hate my aunt." Her plea pierced my heart. She was still so young. "I know that's a lot to ask, I just... please..." She closed the doors as she exited. A heavy sigh left me.
I am sorry, Flurry. I am not sure I can grant that request.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Knock Knock Knock
My eyes fluttered open to the bright sunlight of Tia's day. If it was already this late, I had been out for a lot longer than I intended to be. After dinner I had returned to my quarters hoping to take a short nap. Short was far from how long I had slept. At least I was able to keep the promise I had made to my niece.
Knock Knock Knock
"Just a moment!" I wiped my eyes of sleep, a long yawn escaping me. I got out of bed and walked to the door. One of the best things about being a near perfect immortal being? No need for mane, tail, or coat care. My mane and tail blew in the lunar wind, not a hair out of place. Even my breath was minty fresh. Showers were only required when I had become thoroughly dirty or covered in other creatures' blood, but mostly my coat remained flawless. A curious thing, but gladly received and not taken for granted. I pulled the door open with my telekinesis, too lazy to use a hoof. My heart leapt with joy at the sight awaiting me.
"TIA!?" I threw my forelegs around her.
She is warm! She is warm again!
I fought back the tears.
"Lulu, it's wonderful to see you too, but we just saw each other yesterday," she wrapped a foreleg around me, nuzzling into my neck. I did not care. She was warm again. "May I come in? I think we need to talk."
"Of course, Sister. Come, the room is quaint, but we can discuss things at length." I took a seat on the edge of the bed. Celestia moved to sit in the chair. "Tia?" I got her attention before patting the bed next to myself with a hoof. "Please?" I jutted out my lower lip, attempting my best pouty face.
"Of course, Sister," the giggle that came from her was music to my ears. She plopped down next to me and took a deep breath. "That was quite a few days, huh?"
"How are you feeling, Tia?" I leaned my head against her shoulder. She laid her head atop mine.
"Better, much better. Cadance gave me a clean bill of health... mostly."
"We do not have to speak of that," I assured her. She could heal at her own pace. If need be, I would do the rest.
"It's alright, Luna, I have to face it." She took another deep breath. In, and then, out. "I'm worried, I've not felt distress this distinct in... well, since you..." I stayed silent. I wanted to prostrate myself, to apologize. I had done her and the others so much harm. "Forgive me, Luna."
"Nay, Sister! Tis I who should-" She wrapped me in a tight hug, shutting me down.
"Luna... ever since your return you've done everything I've asked of you. You've shown nothing short of complete loyalty. You've been the best sister anypony could ask for. You have nothing to apologize for... You saved me." My tears soaked my cheeks. Her words meant so much to me, yet somewhere deep inside my heart, regret still whispered vile lies to me.
If only I had never let evil take me.
A thousand years, wasted all because of my foolishness. I had to keep the darkness at bay, had to make sure something like that never happened again.
"Thank you, Tia," I nuzzled her neck.
Why did all of this have to happen? Why was fate so cruel?
"We have to go home, Luna." She let me go, wanting to see my reaction.
"What are you planning, Sister?" I cleaned away my tears with a foreleg.
"There is an artifact I kept that may be able to help us," she looked to the balcony.
"Do you... do you think Twilight has moved?" If I were the young princess, I would have already put my plans into motion days ago.
"Yes, I do. My student is neither indecisive nor foolish, but I can think of nothing else to pursue," she smiled crookedly at me. "I'm doing the best I can, Lulu."
"Tis okay, Sister! Really! I agree. We have to do something," I lowered my head. I hated seeing Celestia's weaknesses. I knew they were there, but she was always so reliable, always in control. She was all I could rely on. She was the one who guided me.
"This is all my fault," she sighed. "I'm so sorry, Luna," she laid a hoof on my cheek. "I really am."
Please Sister, do not say such things...
I wanted to shout, wanted to cry out to her, but I could do nothing. In that moment, more than anything else, I felt truly pitiful.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
"Ready, Luna?" Celestia asked, her horn flaring vibrant gold. We stood just outside the gates of the Crystal Palace. Cadance and Flurry were within said gates, several guards standing at attention behind them. I nodded, producing my own aura of blue magic.
"Be careful!" Cadance called out to us.
"We'll see you in a bit," Flurry waved. "Don't do anything I wouldn't do." Tia and I waved back with grins, Flurry's joke landing well with the both of us.
"Be on your guard," Celestia shouted over the collective hum of our magic, the manifestation of our energy growing louder. "These are perilous times!"
"That's dark Granny! Very dark!" Flurry cupped her mouth with a hoof to be a bit louder. Cadance playfully shoved her daughter, laughing the whole time.
"We will, Auntie!" Cadance beamed. I was beyond ecstatic that they had so swiftly made up. One should never stay at odds with their own family. Immediately after Celestia and I had talked we notified Flurry and Cadance of Tia's plan. We would go home and collect the artifact that Celestia needed, as well as some other supplies, and then reconvene in the empire. Too much time had already passed, we had to act. I wanted to know what the artifact was or how it would help, but time was of the essence. Twilight had several unobstructed days to scheme and put any plans she had made into motion. Our entire week thus far had been recovery. Things were slowly beginning to look up, but we had to be smart. Celestia and I nodded at each other. In the same instant we left reality. The distance from our home to the Crystal Empire was an even greater distance than Canterlot. Being out of existence for the better part of ten seconds always made me contemplate death. It was similar to slumber, but like being conscious during. It was Irrelevant. I was not expecting to die any time soon. Blinking back into reality showed us the true gravity of our situation, sucking dry all the elation we had just experienced.
"N-no!" Celestia galloped forward, her voice overflowing with heart break. I could not move. I fell to my haunches, my legs giving out completely. I had considered this possibility, but did not want to believe it. Twilight Sparkle was not evil. She could not be, not after all we had done for her, after all Celestia had done for her. Tia collapsed to the dirt, her sobs echoing all around us.
"Why?" My breath came short and fast, a tightness in my chest beginning to crush my heart. It was gone. All of it. Not just our home, but everything within miles. A massive crater was all that covered the ground, surrounding my sister and I. The trees, the animals, our garden, even the sparkling lake was dried up and devoid of any signs of life. I felt as if I might vomit. I had to get away. I could not take it. Pleasant memories of the home I shared with my sister swam around in my head, making the despair that much worse. I tried to stand up, but my legs had no strength in them.
I could still see everything so vividly. The fruit and vegetable garden that we had worked so hard to get going. The dance we did together when the first signs of growth appeared. The giant tree we planted next to the lake so we could lounge in front of the water in the shade.
Our home.
The two story house we built ourselves. It had been so very difficult. We were not architects, but we had done it. With so much trial and error, we had finally done it. The feeling of accomplishment was indescribable. We cried together, tears of joy after we completed the seemingly impossible task and now... now it was all dust. I could feel myself channeling my magic, an involuntary action. Celestia looked my way, her face covered in tears. She said something, but I could not hear her over the hum of my spell. I had to leave.
I teleported. Anywhere. Nowhere. As long as it was not there. I sat in a great valley surrounded by tall mountains. I was not familiar with the area, but it was better to be here than face the end of the peaceful life I had cultivated with my elder sister. I wanted to lie down. More so than that, I wanted to wake up. This had to be a nightmare. Perhaps the Tantabus had taken a new form and had returned to torment me anew. That could not be. I had overcome the Tantabus with the aid of...
Twilight.
The rage that filled me was intoxicating, completely replacing the sadness. It threatened to possess me, to take control. This was all her fault. Tia's pain. Our home. All because of that petulant foal. I had to concentrate to contain the anger, but it was slipping through my hooves. I could go directly to Canterlot. I could rend asunder all her defenses and turn her into a pile of smoldering ash. It would just take-
Vwoom
I felt my barrier absorb a projectile. It had connected at seven o'clock, just to the left of my back. If I was not prepared it would have clipped my left wing, rendering me unable to fly. I never left myself vulnerable to surprise attacks. Never show weakness or frailty.
The audacity! The gall!
I felt my pupils narrow into slits, much more suited for battle. I turned my head ever so slowly to come face to face with my assailant.
"What a foolish decision, to seclude yourself like this, Luna." Twilight Sparkle stood behind me, a cocky smirk on her face. She looked different. An overcoat and a new color for her hide. I did not care. The thought of that hide lying lifeless beneath my hooves was all too alluring. Her horn was pitch black, the same as when she had Celestia at her mercy. Had she intended to do the same to me with that spell?
"Twilight Sparkle, you have made your last mistake."
Without any hesitation I attacked.